Malta Work Visa 2025: What’s Changing and How It Affects You

 

Are you planning to work in Malta in 2025? The Mediterranean gem continues to attract international professionals, but important policy updates could impact your visa application process. From stricter hiring tests to new fee structures and integration measures, understanding these changes will help you navigate your employment journey with ease.

Stricter Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT)

Malta is reinforcing its Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) for third-country nationals. Employers must now provide stronger evidence that no Maltese or EU/EEA candidates are available for a position before hiring foreign workers. Job vacancy advertisements must be published for an extended period on both Jobsplus (Malta) and EURES (EU) platforms. Additionally, businesses with a high turnover of non-EU employees may face hiring restrictions, a move designed to ensure long-term job stability.

Application Fees and Renewal Updates

Visa costs are rising for first-time applicants, with Single Permit fees jumping from €300 to €600. However, Malta is offering incentives for long-term foreign employees—renewal fees are set to decrease, and permits may now be valid for two years instead of one, provided applicants have corresponding two-year employment contracts. Another key change is the requirement for salaries to be paid via bank transfers, preventing exploitation and ensuring transparency.

Student Work Permissions & Cultural Integration

For student visa holders, work eligibility is becoming clearer. International students can now legally work up to 20 hours per week, but only after completing an initial continuous stay period. Additionally, Malta is promoting smoother social integration through pre-departure courses covering Maltese language, culture, and values. These initiatives will help foreign workers settle into their new environment more seamlessly.

How to Stay Updated

Applying for a Malta work visa? Be sure to check Identity Malta Agency and Jobsplus for the latest guidelines. With enhanced documentation checklists now in place, preparing all necessary papers thoroughly is essential to avoid delays.

Navigating work visa changes can seem overwhelming, but staying informed will ensure a successful application and smooth transition into your new role in Malta.